It’s no secret that Nashville’s 12 South neighborhood has experienced significant change in recent years — especially its retail scene. As we say hello to new businesses and bid farewell to others, a few neighborhood staples still stand, one of which is beloved jewelry maker Judith Bright. In honor of the original location’s 10-year anniversary, we sat down with Judith to talk about the brand’s origin, where she finds inspiration, her favorite pieces, and more.
After leaving her career in the Los Angeles music industry, Judith found herself in search of a new outlet to express herself and her creativity. She soon began experimenting with metalsmithing and gemstones, quickly realizing that jewelry was a great way to combine her passions for creativity and craftsmanship.
“In 2005, I officially launched Judith Bright Jewelry from a small home studio in Nashville,” Judith says of her store’s humble beginnings. “I was driven by a vision to offer high-quality, handcrafted pieces that would resonate with people on a personal level.”
Offering a collection of handmade bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings, and anklets, Judith says she finds inspiration for new pieces from everyday life — everything from nature to architecture. She wants her pieces to serve as a reminder of a core memory in someone’s life.
“My jewelry is designed to be more than just an accessory; it’s a reflection of the wearer’s individuality, a tangible reminder of their journey, or a special moment,” Judith adds. “Whether it’s a piece worn every day or saved for a significant occasion, I want it to evoke a sense of joy, meaning, and timeless elegance.”
Judith attributes this mission of creating high-quality jewelry with intention and heart to her continued success in the ever-changing 12 South neighborhood.
“We’ve cultivated strong, genuine relationships with our customers, who value the personal connection that comes with shopping local in a world dominated by mass production,” Judith tells us. “In a city like Nashville, where creativity thrives, people truly appreciate craftsmanship and authenticity. I think that connection to our craft and our community is what has helped us stand the test of time.”
When it comes to favorites, it’s hard for Judith to call out just one piece of jewelry. However, a personal favorite of hers is the Rockstar Ring, which she suggests pairing with the Crossover Band.
“Because the gemstone we use for the Rockstar rings design is so big, you get a real connection with your stone,” explains Judith. “The Crossover Band then helps to stabilize the big ring and is a great, classic Judith Bright look.”
Other fan favorites from Judith Bright include the Petite Rock Rings, which offer a wide variety of gemstone options. Judith suggests pairing this ring with a set of Hammered Bands.
Since the official opening of the 12 South store in 2014, Judith has opened a second location at The Factory at Franklin. In addition to maintaining both of these stores, Judith hopes to continue expanding her business and its offerings.
“We are making a push to expand our web business right now,” she explains. “Since we bought our building on 12 South, we are remodeling it and have some fun things planned for that space — indoors and out.”
With so much change in and around Nashville, it’s a breath of fresh air to still have some beloved local businesses remaining, and Judith Bright is a prime example of how it takes a village to create something beautiful.
“The success of my business is a direct result of the incredible support from the Nashville community,” says Judith. “I truly couldn’t have asked for a more kind, welcoming, and generous place to grow my brand. People here have opened doors, their homes, and their hearts to our vision, and that unwavering support has been instrumental in helping us thrive.”
Judith Bright’s 12 South store is located at 2307 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204. You can also find Judith Bright in Franklin at 230 Franklin Rd #11F, Franklin, TN 37064. To learn more, visit judithbright.com.
This article is sponsored by Judith Bright.
